Our Stories

Lori Bryce, Delta Hospital Dietitian

March is Nutrition Month! This year’s theme, “Nourish to Flourish,” highlights the powerful connection between food and overall well-being, emphasizing the role of nutrition in our daily lives. Eating well fuels our bodies with essential nutrients, helps prevent chronic diseases like type 2 diabetes and heart disease, and supports both mental and emotional health. It also fosters social and cultural connections by bringing people together through shared meals and traditions.

To help you make the most of your meals, we reached out to Delta Hospital Dietitian Lori for expert nutrition tips. She mentions a few key components we should incorporate into our diets as we age, including protein, vitamin D, and vitamin B12.

“Protein plays a key role in keeping our muscles strong, which becomes even more important as we age,” says Lori. “Aim to include a source of protein in most meals to help with muscle maintenance and overall health.” Some great protein rich options include beans, lentils, peas, tofu, soy products, eggs, fish, shellfish, lean meats, milk, yogurt, cheese, nuts and seeds.

In addition to protein, vitamin B12 is also essential for maintaining our overall health as we age. “Vitamin B12 is essential for nerve function and energy levels,” Lori notes. “As we age, our ability to absorb naturally occurring B12 decreases, so fortified foods or supplements are often recommended.” Vitamin B12 is naturally found in meat, fish, poultry, eggs, and dairy products, as well as fortified plant-based beverages and nutritional yeast.

Another important nutrient that supports our health, especially as we age, is vitamin D. “Vitamin D is crucial for bone health, especially in Canada, where we don’t get enough sun exposure in the winter,” explains Lori. “Since very few foods naturally contain vitamin D, it’s important to include fortified foods or take a supplement if needed.” To ensure you’re getting enough, include vitamin D-rich foods like salmon, mackerel, sardines, and egg yolks, along with fortified options like milk, plant-based beverages, and margarine. Visit Dietitians of Canada UnlockFood.ca for more information.

With so much conflicting information out there, healthy eating can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be complicated. “Food doesn’t have to be organic, gluten-free, or free of seed oils to be nutritious,” says Lori. “Focus on balance, variety, and whole foods rather than getting caught up in food trends.” This Nutrition Month, remember that small, mindful changes can make a big impact on your health. Nourish your body, enjoy your meals, and flourish in every way!